A new viewing platform at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, overlooking South Walsham Inner Broad, has been officially opened by Fay Newbery and daughters Cassie and Leah from Thurlton.

Fay Newbery’s husband Richard, who sadly died from cancer, left a legacy of £500 to the garden, which helped fund the construction of the viewing platform and associated boardwalk.

Fay, Leah and Cassie Newbery on the new viewing platform

Fay Newbery said: “We were family members at Fairhaven for a number of years and have very happy memories of our visits there. It is very good that Richard’s legacy has helped open up a previously inaccessible area of the garden and has provided a wonderful ‘hidden’ viewing platform, just the place to come for quiet relaxation and to recharge batteries.”

Cassie Newbery added: “I remember the tearoom and visiting Fairhaven at Christmas to see Father Christmas and pick up a Christmas Tree. My Dad would have been very happy to see his money used to create such a lovely addition to the garden.”

Louise Rout, Fairhaven Garden Manager said: “The viewing platform was planned by our former manager George Debbage who retired in January. George was always looking at ways to improve public access and this viewing platform opens up excellent views over the broad as well as giving visitors an opportunity to get ‘away from it all’. I am so pleased that the Newbery’s are happy with the way that we have spent Richard’s legacy.”

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is at South Walsham, nine miles east of Norwich, signposted off A47 at B1140 junction.

Tel. 01603 270449/270683
www.fairhavengarden.co.uk